Story perspectives

30% of Americans Reach Upper Middle Class Amid Financial Insecurity

4/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

The American Enterprise Institute (AEI) reports that over 30% of Americans have entered the upper middle class, defined as $133,000-$400,000.
Despite this, many feel financially insecure due to a cost-of-living crisis.
Randy Shilling, earning $220,000, expresses concerns about affording housing and education.
Laura Shields, with a household income of $240,000, worries about college expenses.
The study notes a shrinking lower-middle class, with less than 30% in that category.

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Story summary

The American Enterprise Institute (AEI) reports that over 30% of Americans have entered the upper middle class, defined as $133,000-$400,000.
Despite this, many feel financially insecure due to a cost-of-living crisis.
Randy Shilling, earning $220,000, expresses concerns about affording housing and education.
Laura Shields, with a household income of $240,000, worries about college expenses.
The study notes a shrinking lower-middle class, with less than 30% in that category.